Modern Vespa

Family member owns a 2008 LX50. Probably has less than 500 miles on it. It's been sitting for years. Last time I tried to get it going (2018?), it took forever to fire up, then stalled right away. Spent hours cleaning the jets and carb. Starting got a little easier, but as soon as you gave it some throttle it died. Was never able to ride it. I suspect we cooked the electric starter too.

So…..where to begin. I hate to see it sitting there.

I'm thinking of buying a new carb instead of messing with the original one. Can you recommend a new carb with part #?

Also, what's the part # for the starter? And how can I diagnose that?

Does the battery need to be good to use the kick start? Or will it start without a good battery up using the kickstart.

I'm fairly handy with cars and small engines (general maintenance) but never worked on a vespa.

It seems these things aren't worth much at this age, so don't want to spend a fortune,

Where should I begin and in what order?

Thanks

If it runs and is clean, with those miles, it's worth more than you think.

Carburetor
https://scooterpartsco.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3637_3647_3888&products_id=1194

Starter motor
https://scooterpartsco.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3637_3647_3891&products_id=130

Probably need this
https://scooterpartsco.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=3637_3647_3888&products_id=4829

Any thoughts on any cheaper carbs on Amazon? I see some as low as $20.

A $20 carb is not worth $20. You get what you pay for.

Does the fuel valve/petcock get gummed up too if the scooter has been sitting? Maybe that's my issue

yes, they are prone to failure.

that should be on your shopping list along with new fuel and vacuum lines.

Check the rubber inlet manifold from the carb , they are prone to cracking as the years go by . This would affect the starting /running quite a lot . Remove it completely to inspect it in a good light , rotate it whilst squeezing it . Any cracks should be apparent . It is not an expensive part to replace .

Would appreciate links to any videos or photos for the work you are recommending.

And any good online service manuals.

Thanks again!

workshop manual

there has been several topics on LX50 work here, so using the wiki or the search feature might help you along.

remember that a lot of the general repair and diagnostic work is very similar between the 150 and 50-- but only the four stroke! so you can use that to your advantage.

good luck!

Is ET4 the internal model # for these bikes?

I'm not entirely sure of what your question is.

there is an ET2 which is a 50cc two stroke and predates the LX50. the ET4 is 150cc and is before the LX150

different models all around.

this is for US spec bikes. other markets are different.

As an aside, does anyone know how to find the month and year of manufacture?

And if the scooter is assembled in the US or elsewhere?

From the VIN you can get those details.
https://modernvespa.com/forum/wiki-vin-decoding

Build sticker.
Elsewhere.